I’m pleased to be with you on this special day, as we observe the important, historic tradition of installing a new university president.  My wife’s family is from West Texas, and I’ve visited many times.   But this is my first visit to the Permian Basin and the University of Texas institution here.  Of course, like most Americans, I have become increasingly familiar with this part of the world. 

Today is my three-week anniversary as Chancellor.   Actually, my first day on the job was the USC football game, and we’ve had a pretty good run since then.   In that same three weeks, we announced our latest Nobel Prize and a new MacArthur “Genius” award.   Please don’t hold me to this standard for the next three weeks!

Good morning.  My name is James B. Milliken, and I’m Chancellor of the University of Texas System. I began my work as Chancellor one week ago.  I’m honored to represent the UT System today as we begin the legislative appropriations process. I’ve spent the last thirty years helping lead university systems in North Carolina, Nebraska and most recently New York. In other words, preparing for the UT System.